2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door body style, catering to different preferences. Buyers could select from a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a gasoline-powered V6, a turbodiesel V6, a gas V8, or the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive was standard across the range. The Wrangler came in four core trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the Willys and Willys Sport, Sahara High Altitude, and Wrangler Rubicon 392. The High Tide model, based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S trim, was a US-market special edition that added features like LED exterior lighting and a body-colour hardtop with a Sunrider Fliptop.

The 2023 Acura RDX was known for its sharp, angular style, though it remained conventional enough to blend in with other small SUVs. The signature Acura grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, gave the front a sporty and aggressive look. The side featured a distinctive character line, while the rear was more conventional. Inside, the RDX had a vertical cockpit layout with a centre stack of controls flowing into the centre console. The 10.2-inch infotainment display sat atop the dash, and the instrument panel featured a digital centre display with analog gauges. While the interior wasn't as modern as some rivals, it offered a familiar layout for those averse to the latest glass cockpits.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler was equipped with a 3.6-litre V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, delivering 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the optional Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, the Wrangler was designed for challenging weather conditions. However, it consumed fuel at a rate of 14.0 L/100 km over a week of testing, higher than the 11.2 L/100 km estimated by Natural Resources Canada. The Wrangler's driving experience was unique, characterized by loud cabin noise, vague steering, and a rough ride, but it offered an immersive and adventurous experience for those willing to embrace its quirks.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The standard all-wheel-drive system, known as "super-handling all-wheel drive" (SH-AWD), provided excellent traction. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, with a responsive throttle and a pleasing engine sound. The transmission was adept at selecting the right gear, and the brake pedal offered reassuring firmness. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim. It offered a sporty yet comfortable ride, smoothing over road imperfections with ease.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler posed challenges for entry and exit, especially with a raised suspension. The manual height adjuster for the driver's seat required frequent readjustment. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a mix of plastic and rubber materials, with some padded spots for comfort. Visibility varied, with some areas requiring leaning forward to see traffic lights. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry difficulties but found agreeable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was ample, with 898 litres behind the rear seat and 2,050 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered ample front-seat space, with additional power adjustments in the top trim. The standard heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel and dual-zone climate control, enhanced comfort. Rear seats accommodated average-sized adults, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The panoramic sunroof added to the sense of space. Cargo capacity was 835 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,668 litres with the seats folded. The RDX provided various storage options for smaller items, though the centre stack design could be more space-efficient.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While it lacked the optional Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, the basic setup met essential needs. The Wrangler included remote engine starting, satellite radio, passive keyless entry, and single-zone automatic climate control. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, extending the open-air driving season.

The 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system used a touchpad controller, which was challenging to operate, especially while driving. The dashtop display was not a touchscreen, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity improved usability. The system featured sharp graphics and quick responses. Standard features included Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio premium audio system. The infotainment interface was one of the least user-friendly, despite the system's overall capabilities.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered optional safety features through the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group. The Safety Group included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors, while the Advanced Safety Group added adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Wrangler's crash-test ratings were subpar, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and Marginal ratings from the IIHS.

The 2023 Acura RDX received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side crash protection and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and front and rear parking sensors. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The RDX's safety systems performed well, with smooth adaptive cruise control and effective collision warnings.